In December 2023, while I was studying at Harvard, I found myself deeply immersed in one of the most pivotal issues of our time—climate change and its intersection with energy policy. While taking Professor Dan Schrag’s class, The Climate Energy Challenge: A Foundation in Science, Technology, and Policy, I wrote a paper titled Strategy for Climate Change Adaptation and Clean Energy Transition in Nigeria. This wasn’t just an academic exercise; it was a transformative experience that reshaped my understanding of climate change and, ultimately, my role in fighting it.
The Stark Reality of the Wet-Bulb Effect
During my research, I encountered the stark reality of the Wet-Bulb effect—a phenomenon where high humidity and temperatures combine to make conditions unbearable for human survival. For large parts of the developing South, this could mean unlivable conditions within the century if current global warming trends continue.
In my paper, I referenced the alarming trajectory of global CO2 emissions, which are at 36.8 gigatons per year, and how these trends could push global temperatures 2 to 4 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by the end of this century. For Nigerians, this translates into an average annual daily temperature of up to 30 degrees Celsius, compounded by high humidity.
I wrote:"More of my people will need to rely on air-conditioning to live through normal days; fewer people will remain outdoors for extended periods, and the risks of heat stroke and other heat-related stresses will increase the burden on our already overstretched healthcare system."
It became painfully clear to me that while the Global North might experience inconveniences like hotter summers and snowless winters, the Global South would face existential threats. Entire regions, including my hometown of Ibadan, Nigeria, could become nearly uninhabitable without adaptive technologies.
A Matter of Climate Justice
The injustice of climate change struck a deep chord. Many parts of the Global South, including Africa, have contributed almost nothing to the problem. African nations account for less than 4% of global emissions. Yet, they are poised to suffer the worst consequences—scorching heat, erratic rainfall, and devastating impacts on agriculture and health.
I thought of my family back home, where daily life has already become increasingly dependent on air-conditioning to manage oppressive heat. What would another 2 or 3 degrees mean for them? What about the millions of Africans who currently live without electricity and must bear the brunt of climate change while grappling with poverty and limited infrastructure?
This inequity spurred me into action. I realized that adaptation and mitigation strategies were not just necessary but urgent, and I could play a role in bridging the gap.
From Health Equity to Energy Equity
My entrepreneurial journey with RxAll had taught me the power of technology to solve systemic inequities—in that case, enabling access to quality healthcare in Africa. The fight against climate change presented a parallel challenge: energy equity. Millions in the developing world lack access to reliable electricity, refrigeration, and cooling. Addressing this gap would not only help people adapt to rising temperatures but also empower them to improve their quality of life.
Solar and natural gas technologies offer scalable solutions. They provide clean, affordable energy that can power homes, refrigeration, and air-conditioning in regions that need them most. With my background in entrepreneurship, access to capital, and understanding of technology, I saw a path forward. It was clear that I could contribute meaningfully to the energy transition in the Global South, building resilient systems that support sustainable development.
The Call to Action
The fight against climate change is one that requires all hands on deck. Governments, businesses, and individuals must work together to reduce emissions, deploy clean energy technologies, and ensure that vulnerable communities have the tools to adapt. This is not just about mitigating a crisis; it is about creating a fairer, more equitable world.
For me, this journey began with an academic paper, but it has evolved into a lifelong commitment. Climate change is not a distant threat; it is here, and it is disproportionately affecting those least responsible for it. We cannot allow this inequity to persist.
By leveraging technology, fostering innovation, and investing in the Global South, we can address the dual challenges of climate mitigation and adaptation. It’s a fight for survival, but also for justice—and it’s a fight I am proud to be part of.
We all must get involved. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind in the face of a warming world.
Contributed by Dr. Samuel Adebayo Alonge, Founder Frontieres Bay Energies.
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